Dental Assistant Qualifications or Certification
Most states in America regulate the duties that a dental assistant is allowed to perform within a dentist’s office. Dental assistant certification is normally mandatory in order to perform expanded duties or to perform radiological operations. Certification may also be referred to as licensure and this may include attending an accredited dental assisting program or passing a practical or written examination. Several states also necessitate the continuation of an education in order to maintain licensure or registration. Hardly any States allow the assistant to perform any task that is assigned to them by the dentist. Since requisites differ from state to state it is advisable to contact the relevant state board directly for specific requirements.
In more than 37 states, the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) qualification which is governed by the Dental Assisting National Board is recognized and required. Aspirants may be eligible to take the DANB examination by advancing from a CODA-accredited dental assisting education program, by having 2 years full time experience or by having 4 years of part-time experience working as a dental assistant. Also, candidates must be in possession of a current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. For annual recertification, applicants must obtain continuing education credits. Other organizations offer enrollment, normally at State level.
Different states have taken up different standards for assistants who carry out certain advanced dental tasks. In a number of states, assistants who carry out radiological procedures must finish additional training that separate from that needed to perform other advanced dental procedures. Completion of the Certified Dental Assistant program offered by the DANB (Dental Assisting National Board) or completion of the Radiation Health and Safety examination meets the required standards in 30 states together with the District of Columbia. A number of other states may require completion of a state approved course in radiology as well. Twelve states have no formal requirements needed to perform radiological operations.
Dental assistants must be a second pair of hands for the main dentist, so naturally these dentists will look for someone who is reliable, has good manual deftness and someone who is very easy to work with and lighthearted.
Without advancement in education, opportunities will be limited. Some dental assistants eventually become insurance claims processors for dental insurance companies, dental product sales representatives, office managers and dental-assisting instructors that teach other people the ropes on becoming a dental assistant. A number of others go back to gain a further education and become dental hygienists. For most though, this entry level opportunity represents a chance for basic training, experience and also presents a stepping stone to further education and higher paying positions as a result. Assistants hoping to take on more advanced functions, such as taking on radiological procedures, may choose to complete the course-work in those functions allowed under state regulation. They may also, if required, have to obtain a state-issued license in order to practice.
Knowledge of what functions you wish to perform as a dental assistant and how you can segue into performing those functions is key when seeking Dental Assistant Certification.
